Over the last few weeks, we have been looking at the concepts of pride and humility in the Christian life. Admittedly, this is a tremendous struggle for us as we pursue Christ-likeness. If you are like me, you can be hesitant at times to do the right thing because of an issue of self-interest that is involved. Even though you KNOW the right thing to do from an objective standpoint, you wonder if this is really just a way to self-righteously mask your own pride, ambition, and sense of self-importance.
One of the issues that we saw in the fall of Lucifer was his ambition. Specifically, he was ambitious for Yahweh’s position – Lucifer wanted to sit on the throne. Lucifer was ambitious for God’s power – he wanted to be the decision maker. Lucifer was ambitious for God’s praise.
I know this is not a flattering comparison – but do you feel oddly similar to Lucifer in this sense? Are you jealous of others position? Did someone get a promotion you wanted? Do you feel like life would be so much easier if you had more control, more power? Are you upset when other people are congratulated when you are not? Don’t you wish people recognized you more than they do?
Pride is an insiduous enemy that seeks to infiltrate our lives (and has) at every possible opportunity. As we engage in this battle, remember the wise words of G.I. Joe. – “knowing is half the battle”. And take comfort in the realization that if you are not in some sense seeking position, power, or praise that God is granting you the grace to do the right thing!
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